Best bang for the buck?

[Jack_F]

Teaching CCW classes in the current Ohio work enviroment I find people do not have much money for a pistol. That said, what do you think the "best bang for the buck" would be?...........

[yankee2500]

C4

[DDGator]

All around best value might be a used S&W j-frame.  $400ish.   If that is still too high, a used Taurus snubby.

On the semi-auto belt gun side -- S&W Thrid Gen Autoloader (like the 6906), Kel-Tec P-11 or a used Glock.

On the pocket gun side -- Ruger LCP, Kel-Tec P-3AT.

[Dr. Gonzo]

+1 DDGator
A used J-Frame is tough to beat for a CCW without breaking the bank.
I like a bobbed hammer SP101 myself, but it's a bit too heavy.

[Ljutic]

You didn't mention caliber or target price, but the Bersa 380's are a great value for money even if buying a new pistol.  The have good sights and can stand up to quite a bit of shooting.  Extra mags are reasonable.  The size is ok for pocket, purse, or waistband carry. 

If your students can learn double action, the J frame option is also good.

[tracker]

I stood next to a gentleman firing a Bersa .380 and was astounded at his accuracy. He said that he was sighting in his wife's pistol, the Bersa. I held it and felt the same durable construction aspects that you describe.

[DDGator]

My issue with the Bersa is that it is very large for a .380 ACP.  And its not that easy to shoot (recoil-wise) because its a blowback design.  I think the quality is decent for the money.

[Giraffes]

One more vote for a used/police trade-in Glock. I've seen them in the high $300 range which is right in line with other options. If they're looking for something requiring even less maintenance, I'd also agree with suggesting a used S&W J-Frame. Can't get much more reliable.

[DDGator]

I am willing to buy every sub-$400 used Glock I can find, so long as no one has done any home gunsmithing on it.     In fact, I prefer the Gen 2 guns.  My "game gun" for the local IPSC matches is a Gen 2 Glock 17.

[Giraffes]

Check out Summit Gun Broker. Funny you should mention it, I almost picked up a Gen2 G17  a few months ago for $385 but they were all sold by the time I made up my mind. Still kicking myself... Sometimes he'll also have some used HKs for mid $400s.

[Giraffes]

Darn it! Just hopped on his site and he has all German Sig P220 CPOs for $555. Decisions...

[kjtrains]

I am willing to buy every sub-$400 used Glock I can find, so long as no one has done any home gunsmithing on it.     In fact, I prefer the Gen 2 guns.  My "game gun" for the local IPSC matches is a Gen 2 Glock 17.

Here's a Factory Referb Glock Gen2, Buy It Now, for $399.99; however description says Gen 1.

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=272956852

[coyote]

J-frame smith

[Heber_Guy]

I would also cast my vote for a used Glock.
Bought both a 17 and 19 police trade ins about 7 years ago and they just keep being Glocks which means flawless function.
These were both factory refurbished.

[jmoh]

For budget CCW, it's hard to beat the Kahr CM9. It can usually be found for right around $400.